When Itzik Danino began his tenure as Mayor of Ofakim, he brought with him a bold and long-term vision: to transform Ofakim into the AgriTech capital of Israel.

Situated at the heart of the country’s largest agricultural region—surrounded by open land, research farms, and production centers—Ofakim was perfectly positioned to lead the future of agricultural innovation. Itzik recognized this unique potential and began laying the groundwork to turn it into reality.

He quickly connected with national and local partners who shared this belief—organizations that could bring knowledge, capital, talent, and infrastructure. Among them were Sarona Partners, one of Israel’s leading startup platforms and venture firms, and The Mitbach, a local engine for innovation and entrepreneurship.
All of this is supported and wrapped by the long-standing work of the OR Movement, which for decades has focused on strengthening and developing communities across the Negev and the Galilee—building not just houses, but futures.

The SEED Innovation Center is the first realization of this larger vision. It is the greenhouse where early-stage startups can plant their ideas, receive support, and grow into full-scale ventures that become part of the city’s wider ecosystem.